This report presents the rationale for the expanded women's programs sponsored by the Ford Foundation and describes their current and projected activities. Both men and women should have opportunities to choose roles and lifestyles unconstrained by sex discrimination. The gross under-representation of women cited in figures throughout this report is prima facie evidence of sex discrimination and implies lack of choice. The paper is presented in two parts. Part one describes problems women encounter in their economic activities throughout the world. As compared with men, women are underpaid, are denied credit, and experience higher unemployment. They are particularly constrained in the economic sphere by their domestic and mothering responsibilities. Girls and women are denied equality with boys and men in education and training to prepare them for their multiple roles. Cultural forces also pose many obstacles to women's full participation in their families, society, and the economy. Part two describes the general position of the Foundation in work on sex discrimination, outlines the work of each division on these problems, and suggests future program directions. There are three major program divisions of the Foundation. The National Affairs' women's program has as its major focus the improvements in the economic security of women, particularly low-income and disadvantaged women. The programs of the Education and Public Policy Division are aimed at the elimination of discrimination based on sex in all phases of education. The International Division women's program objectives have been to help overcome inequity and, in the process, to help ensure that women can both contribute to achieving a variety of development goals and also share more fully in the resulting benefits. (Author/RM)